A wonderful classic

[2026] A roundup of dark Western songs I'd like middle schoolers to listen to

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.

When we’re weighed down by melancholy, it’s the power of music that gently wraps around our hearts.

Sometimes we feel deep empathy by laying bare the darkness inside; other times we find encouragement amid despair—here are some classic Western songs that do just that.

Focused mainly on Gen Z artists, we’ve selected tracks that can stand beside the many kinds of emotional pain today’s middle schoolers (as of 2025) may face—heartbreak, friendship troubles, anxieties about the future, and more.

Listening while understanding the lyrics will make them resonate even more deeply.

Just be careful not to get swallowed by darkness that’s too deep—and by all means, try listening as you read the lyrics.

[2026] A Compilation of Dark Western Songs That Middle Schoolers Should Listen To (31–40)

I’m AliveDisturbed

Disturbed – I’m Alive (With Lyrics)

I'm AliveDisturbed

It begins with a heavy, brooding riff, but the lyrics are powerful, conveying a strong will to live firmly on one’s own two feet.

The style might not resonate with today’s younger listeners, yet while the tone is calmly melancholic, the performance and vocals are forceful.

It might be worth a listen when you’re feeling worn out by life.

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Slania’s SongEluveitie

Eluveitie – Slania’s Song

Slania's SongEluveitie

I think it might have been Swedish rather than English, but precisely because I don’t understand the words, I can focus on elements like the melody.

Nordic music often carries a slightly melancholic atmosphere, and I sense that same wistfulness from this band as well.

When it’s fused with metal, it gains a sense of power, and it changes the way one can enjoy folk music.

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DisassociativeMarilyn Manson

Marilyn Manson Disassociative

DisassociativeMarilyn Manson

When people think of Marilyn Manson, relatively aggressive songs like “The Beautiful People” are famous, but this one feels steeped in gloom and languor, which I think makes it fitting as a depression song.

It wasn’t released as a single, so you can only hear it on the album.

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I’m Not Human At AllSleep Party People

Sleep Party People – I’m Not Human At All

I'm Not Human At AllSleep Party People

They’re an indie band from Denmark.

All the members wear rabbit masks, and the vocals are processed with effects to the point that the original voice is unrecognizable.

Their performance style—moving relatively slowly while swaying their long ears—adds to the overall strangeness.

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To SheilaThe Smashing Pumpkins

Smashing Pumpkins “To Sheila”

To SheilaThe Smashing Pumpkins

I think Adore is the best album—the one Billy, the vocalist, poured himself into while the band’s relationships were falling apart, with members getting arrested for drugs and so on.

When it’s rainy, like during the monsoon season, playing this album calms my heart.

It’s filled with songs that gently soothe depression.

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